Brand New Piggy

Question
Katie,
We purchased a piggy Monday and are excited we have one.  "Tiger" is our first.  I have a few questions.

First, he seems very timid.  I know he is in a new situation and new cage, etc.  He doesn't come out of his "igloo" too much.  The woman at the store told us we need to leave alone for a few days.  I've held him a couple of times very close to my body and stroking his upper back and speaking very softly to him.  I'm worried he won't become social.

Second, he has pooed and wet inside his "igloo" house.  I thought piggies didn't "go" where they live.  Is this a bad sign?

Also, he hasn't eaten much today.  He ate quite a bit of hay yesterday, but not today.

I know I might be an over-worried mom, but any reassurance would help.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Cathy B.

Answer
Hi Cathy, welcome to the wonderful world of being a cavy slave.

First thing first, if your new cavy a male or female? I see you are calling him a him, but is that what the pet store told you? Many pet stores do not know how to sex cavies and just guess. www.cavyspirit.com/sexing.htm

What kind of cage did you get him? Anything bought from a pet store is way too small and a big waste of money have you heard of C&C cages? What kind of bedding are you using? Pine and Cedar can be very dangerous and should never be used. www.cavycages.com

To help him get used to his new environment, take out his pigloo, if you don't he will always hide in it and always be scared. Take it out during the day and put it in when you go to bed.

Cavies pee and poop all over, I have never heard of a cavy NOT going in their house.

It is very normal for cavies not to eat for the first couple of days in a new home. Keep hay and pellets in his cage at all times and start introducing vegetables into his diet. Things like Romaine, Green, Red Leaf Lettuce, Spinach, Kale, Endive, Parsley, Cilantro and Bell Peppers.

Did the pet store mention that cavies do better in pairs? Well they do, if your cage is big enough it would be best to get another cavy as they are herding animals and very social.
Also, look for shelters and rescues in your area the have cavies, never buy from a pet store. www.cavyrescue.com


Please visit these websites
www.cavyspirit.com
www.cavycages.com
www.caviesgalore.com